CONTACT: Sergeant Ritchie Lew (805) 583-6993 The Simi Valley Police Department would like to inform our citizens that when you make a retail purchase from an Apple Store, please be extra cautious and look for anyone who may be following you as you exit the store. Apple Store patrons throughout Southern California, including the Apple Store in Simi Valley, have been targeted by what is being called the “follow away” vehicle burglars. The suspects are apparently watching Apple Store customers as they purchase computer related equipment and then following them to their vehicle. The suspects continue to follow the prospective victim(s) as they drive to another location. Some customers who have stopped at another location and left the computer related items in their vehicle have returned to find their vehicle burglarized and the computer equipment stolen. These so–called “follow away” thefts have occurred in the parking lots of various retail establishments as well as on residential streets, often a considerable distance from the Apple Store. This is a highly preventable crime, and the Simi Valley Police Department is urging citizens not to leave computers or any valuables in plain view and unattended in their vehicles at any time. This is a crime of opportunity, and vigilant citizens who guard their property will greatly reduce the chance of becoming a victim. If you ever believe you are being followed, the Simi Valley Police Department urges you to call 911 immediately or drive to the nearest police station or other safe place to report the matter.